Hair styling

Abstract

In a hair styling device (20), a light emitting diode (33) is configured to deliver optical energy to hair, wherein an energy fluence of the optical energy is between 0.5 and 9 J / cm2, and more preferably between 1 and 5 J / cm2. The light emitting diode (33) is pulse-driven, and a pulse width of the optical energy is at least 50 ms. An output wavelength of the optical energy may be between 400 and 900 nm. The pulse width of the optical energy is preferably between 50 and 300 ms. The hair styling device (20) may comprise an optical shield (32) configured to block stray light during light exposure of the hair. An inner surface of the optical shield (32) may be reflective and / or may have a parabolic shape. The optical shield (32) may be movable between an open position in which a lock of hair can be placed in the hair styling device (20) while the optical energy is not applied, and a closed position in which light is prevented from escaping the hair styling device (20) while the optical energy is applied to the hair. The hair styling device may be a hair straightener having opposing first and second straightening surfaces, of which at least the first straightening surface comprises the light emitting diode (33), and at least the second straightening surface is arranged for reflecting light from the light emitting diode (33).

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The invention relates to hair styling, including hair crimping, curling, perming and straightening.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]WO 2009 / 074957 discloses a method of cosmetically treating keratinous fibers made of hair, comprising subjecting the fibers to light pulses that are emitted by a treatment apparatus and that are of duration less than or equal to 5×10−12 s. The pulses may have at least one dominant wavelength in any one of the ranges 1000 nm to 1600 nm, 700 nm to 900 nm, 350 nm to 450 nm, and 500 nm to 800 nm. The treatment apparatus may comprise a laser. Depending on the efficiencies, on the pulse durations, and on the hair, the energy density may vary in the range 0.01 J / cm2 to 10 J / cm2. The treatment is a treatment for bleaching hair, it being possible for the hair to have its natural color or to be colored artificially, the bleaching being performed with a view to the hair being dyed so as to be colored differently or with a view to it ret...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent text describes a system and method for curing or straightening hair using light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The LEDs selectively heat up the cortex of the hair with a narrow range of wavelengths and for a short period of time. The system controls the energy fluence on the hair surface to prevent damage to the hair and maintain its natural moisture content. The LED units are small, low-voltage, and simple to drive. This makes the system compact, safe, and battery-operated.

Problems solved by technology

Hair damage, particularly due to the application of heat, is a major concern of consumers.

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